[Coexistence of systemic sclerosis and gout? Hyperuricemia in systemic sclerosis: case report and literature review].

INTRODUCTION

There are few reports in the literature on the coexistence of systemic sclerosis with gout. Gout is the most common cause of arthritis among men past the age of 40 years. Elevated levels of uric acid may be associated with the metabolic syndrome, administration of diuretics, and kidney or cardiovascular disease.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

We present the case of a 47-year-old male who was diagnosed with arterial hypertension, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, systemic sclerosis with interstitial lesions in lungs, and hyperuricemia. Large nodules resembling tophi were present on the right elbow and knee. Radiographs of these sites revealed numerous calcifications.

CONCLUSIONS

Coexistence of gout should be considered in a patient with systemic sclerosis and hyperuricemia. The authors draw attention to the potential effect of elevated levels of uric acid on the prognosis, particularly in the context of cardiovascular complications. There are data in the literature on the relationship of hyperuricemia with pulmonary arterial hypertension in patients with systemic sclerosis.